2019 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack

https://youtu.be/6lmelv3gBV0 Car and Driver writes...Just when you thought station wagons had all but disappeared, they have found a way to stay relevant: by mimicking crossovers. The 2019 Golf Alltrack is Volkswagens response to the Subaru Outback. Although late to the quasi-SUV party, it has brought the right ingredients: raised ground clearance, standard all-wheel drive, and black-plastic cladding around the wheel openings and on the lower body for a more rugged, off-roady image. In this case, the protg is more accomplished than the master; the Alltrack is more pleasant to drive than the Outback, largely on the merits of the strong foundation it shares with the entire 10Best Carswinning Golf family. The Alltrack comes standard with a turbocharged inline-four engine thats eager and responsive regardless of transmission choice. Despite its modest 170 horsepower, the punchy four-cylinder overachieves with midrange power that makes the Alltrack feel sprightly. At our test track, an automatic-equipped Alltrack scampered from zero to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, but our long-term test vehicle equipped with the manual transmission did the deed in just 6.7 seconds. As do other versions of VWs unimpeachable Golf, the Alltrack strikes a near perfect balance between comfort and athleticism. The ride is nicely controlled and comfortable, and body roll is kept in check during more enthusiastic cornering, despite the Alltracks raised suspension. Precise, satisfying steering rounds out this pleasing package. In addition to the Eco and Sport driving modes found in other Golfs, the Alltrack adds an Offroad mode that alters throttle and brake calibrations and enables a hill-descent-control function. The Alltracks cabineven in base trimis rich and inviting, with standard faux-leather seats that are available in several different appealing color optionswere partial to the Marrakesh Brown, in case youre wondering. Everything is arranged logically, with most controls where you expect them to be. The Alltrack measures up well to the significantly larger Outback, both in cargo-carrying ability and in interior storage space. Behind its rear seat theres space for 10 carry-on suitcases but with those seats stowed, the Alltrack can accommodate up to 21. Folding the back seat is a simple process, but they dont quite create an entirely flat cargo floor when folded. Strong crash-test results and a solid portfolio of driver-assistance features round out the Alltracks commendable safet